Chloroquine is an antimalarial medication used for the prevention and treatment of malaria caused by Plasmodium vivax, Plasmodium ovale, and Plasmodium malariae. It is not effective against most strains of Plasmodium falciparum due to widespread resistance, but remains a reliable option in regions where susceptible strains are still present.<\/p>\n
Chloroquine works by interfering with the parasite’s ability to break down and use red blood cells. This disrupts its life cycle and helps eliminate the infection from the bloodstream. In addition to its antimalarial properties, chloroquine is occasionally used for certain autoimmune conditions such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis under medical supervision.<\/p>\n
The medication is typically taken once a week for malaria prevention, starting one to two weeks before entering an endemic area and continuing for four weeks after departure. For treatment of active malaria, chloroquine is taken over a few consecutive days at a higher dose. The exact dosing depends on the patient\u2019s weight, age, and whether the goal is prevention or treatment.<\/p>\n
Chloroquine is generally well tolerated, but side effects may include stomach upset, headache, blurred vision, or itching. Rare but serious side effects include changes in heart rhythm or eye damage with prolonged use. Regular eye check-ups are recommended for individuals using chloroquine long-term for non-malarial indications.<\/p>\n
It is important to verify that chloroquine is appropriate for the destination, as resistance patterns vary widely across malaria zones.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"